Think I fixed it by reading a former post here on CNET. Should've searched first. I apologize.
Thank you!
Not sure if I can explain this clearly, so ask questions where needed.
I am running Windows XP Pro WITHOUT SP2.
Normally, when a new message comes in, the little envelope icon appears near the clock next to some other icons that are there. It will usually push the other icons out of the way to appear.
Lately, it gets hidden so that I can't see if I don't flip back to Outlook Express to see if there's new mail or if I click the arrow next to the icons to expand the view.
Any ideas?

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